As you know, my father is a retired pilot, and my brother currently flies for Airtran. They could fly upside down, through turbulence, and without any ventilation and feel just peachy. I, on the other hand, break into a sweat at the first signs of bumps. Thus the flying gene somehow skipped over me.
Motion sickness is caused when your inner ear perceives movement but your vision doesn't. It creates an inner disagreement that can cause nausea, increased heartbeat, sweats, and a myriad of other nasty side-effects. I've experienced all of them, and it's not fun.
Although I love the thrill of being somewhere new, exploring a foreign culture, and the euphoria of stumbling upon a great travel deal - I can't stand the process of getting from A to B. The stress of packing, getting to the airport, fighting crowds, security lines, and flight delays are bad enough. But stepping onto a hot, stuffy plane with a funky stomach is the worst fate. I've tossed my cookies before on a flight, but not since I was a little kid. Over the years I learned a few tips and tricks that have gotten me through many an upchuck potential situation.
Medicate - You might want to try some Dramamine (make sure it's non-drowsy or you'll be out for half the day) before a flight. However, few, if any, drugs truly take away the motion sickness feeling completely. I've personally found Dramamine at least takes the edge off. An episode of Myth Busters on Discovery Channel tested various anti-nausea drugs by being blind-folded and being spun around in chairs until they puked. However, ginger pills seemed to be the only remedy that actually worked for them. My neighbor also swears by them and starts taking ginger a week before her annual cruise.
Eat light - My mother-in-law is both Midwestern and 100% Italian and loves to feed us. Once she made chili and ribs for lunch, shortly before a flight. I ate light, but my husband indulged and paid the price. He nearly lost his lunch numerous times. Instead, opt for something small and somewhat bland. A simple sandwich can do wonders.
Rethink 'Bad' Foods - Often a small bag of simple chips or plain crackers will soothe my stomach while onboard. I avoid any juices, fruits, or veggies that have the potential to create an acidic or gassy environment in my stomach.
Stay Cool - For most people, staying cool can acutely reduce nausea. Crank up your vents and always ask for ice in your drink. In a pinch you can wrap an ice cube or two in your napkin and place it behind your neck.
Don't panic - It's easy to feel like the world will end when you're rockin' an upset stomach. What's the worst that will happen? You'll puke. The end. Instead, focus on something else and clear you're head. I like to take deep breaths and eye the tray table latch in front of me, clearing my head completely. If I'm feeling especially bad, I let my husband or travel companion know I need a minute. That allows me to just focus and stay calm.
Go to Sleep - I'm not very good at sleeping just anywhere, but I've learned to put myself into at least a snooze when I'm feeling ill. In fact, it's usually the only time I can fall asleep on the plane. I just close my eyes, force my thoughts away, and focus on sleep.
Reverse the Symptoms - NASA did a study with its astronauts (who are also prone to motion sickness) that showed you can greatly reduce the symptoms on your own. If you're heart is racing, take deep breaths and focus on calming down. If you're burning up, turn on the vents and suck on some ice. Visualize your body relaxing and returning to normal.
Don't Be Afraid to Sport the Bag - There's no shame in using a barf bag, friends. If you're prone to nausea, always check the seat back in front of you when you first sit-down and make sure there's a bag there. If not, swipe one or ask the flight attendant for a spare. If you're feeling the grumblings and can't go to the bathroom, don't fight that not so friendly feeling too long. My pilot brother pointed out that many people are too embarrassed to get out the bag and end up puking on the floor, or worse, their neighbor. Interestingly, this sets off a chain reaction and other passengers start to feel ill and begin their own puke fest. If you use the bag, it can easily be disposed of and the event is over.
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Motion Sickness - Tricks of the Trade
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2 comments:
Two things that have worked for me are Sea Bands and focusing on the horizon, especially if I'm on a boat.
If you are on a cruise and start getting quite sick (happens to the best of us), go to the infirmary, which has Compazine, a strong anti-nausea medication that's either taken by mouth, or in more severe cases, injected.
Good advice/post from someone who's obviously been there - thanks!
I just finished writing a post on seasickness and (if it's available) angosgtura bitters mixed with some club soda is my absolute favorite cure: http://www.gogirlfriend.com/hot-tip-of-the-day
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